This course is a brief introduction to philosophy, more like philosophy entertainment than a hardcore philosophy course. If you’re looking for tedious argumentation, this course is not for you.
Over three sessions, we survey a variety of philosophical topics through the works of Plato, the Stoics, Epicureans, Descartes, and Hume.
Core Questions
Discussions revolve around: What is the value of philosophy? Can philosophy have practical uses in our everyday lives? What is the nature of reality? What can we know about the world? What are virtues, and how can we live a virtuous life?
Course Structure
Session 1: Plato and the Definition Quest
- Euthyphro
- The Socratic method and questioning assumptions
Session 2: Hellenistic Philosophy and Ethics
- Stoicism: Virtue in accordance with nature & eudaimonia
- Epicureanism: Hedonism & ataraxia (tranquility)
Session 3: Modern Philosophy - Rationalism & Empiricism
- Descartes’ Dream: Skepticism and the foundations of knowledge
- Hume’s Habits: Experience, causation, and the limits of reason
Learning Approach
The course combines historical background with contemporary applications, making ancient wisdom relevant to modern life through interactive discussions and practical examples.